How to capture a screen shot, how to instantly launch voice control, a variety of keyboard shortcuts and more.

The first BlackBerry 10 smartphone, the BlackBerry Z10, is currently available in select markets across the globe, and it's expected to be released in most of the major mobile markets, including the United States, by the end of March.

Like BlackBerry devices of the past, the new BlackBerry Z10 and its accompanying BlackBerry 10 software pack a number of valuable features, functionality and shortcuts that may not be apparent to the casual user. That's where I come in. Check out the following must-know BlackBerry Z10 and BlackBerry 10 tips and tricks to get the most out of your new BlackBerry 10 smartphone.

1) BlackBerry 10's Built-In Screen Shot Feature

Capturing a screen shot on a BlackBerry 10 device is simple. Just hold both the volume up and volume down keys simultaneously for a couple of seconds until you hear a shutter sound. Screen shots are saved to your BlackBerry 10 camera gallery.

2) Volume Up/Down Keys as Media Controls

You can use your BlackBerry 10 device's volume up and volume down keys to skip through songs in your music library. To enable this feature, open your BlackBerry 10 Settings by dragging down from the top of your display while on your Active Frames screen or a home screen panel. Choose Settings from the dropdown menu and click System Volume. On the following page, slide the Music Shortcuts button to the On position.

3) Volume Up/Down Keys and the BlackBerry 10 Camera

You simply tap your BlackBerry Z10's display with the camera or video camera open to snap an image or start recording a video clip. But it's sometimes easier to use the volume keys. Just tap the volume up or volume down keys with the camera open to snap and image. And you can also use these keys to start and stop video capture when your camera's video mode is enabled.